Monday 15 September

Early start, despite sleepless night, and into Florence. Parked the car easily and walked up to Piazzale Michelangelo, a high square atop a hill overlooking all Florence. Early morning this was a truly breathtaking view. 

Then down into the city to visit the Piazza della Signora – a main square overlooked by the lovely outdoor sculpture of the Loggia and the high white statue of Neptune. Next into the Palazzo della Signoria (Palazzo Vecchoo) – a beautiful place where some of Florence’s most historic events have taken place. Of special interest was the Hall of 500 and the views of the city from the palace’s roof and towers. 

A short walk took us to the Baptistery opposite the Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore. Here doors by Lorenzo Chiberti (27 years to make) depict scenes from the Old Testament in glittering gold. (Michelangelo on seeing them said “These doors are fit to stand at the gates of Paradise!”) Inside one colourful 13th century miscues which cover the high ceiling. Across the road we entered the cathedral with its simple lines and high soaring dome – a beautiful church. On next to the leather factorise around the Church of Santa Croce (note to buy, prices “upped” for Americans but best selection). Lunch of pizza and wine and then we returned to the car for the easy drive to Rome. It would have been but for the wiper motor packing up. And of course it was raining – kept speed up and the wind helped clear the rain. Arrived at Rome, set up camp at camping and had early night ready for Rome tomorrow.